David Beckham urges support for girls facing violence, abuse, and early marriage in global UNICEF drive

 David Beckham has chosen compassion over celebration as he nears his milestone 50th birthday, launching a heartfelt campaign with UNICEF to support some of the world’s most vulnerable children—particularly adolescent girls facing abuse, violence, and forced marriage.

The former England football captain, who turns 50 on May 2, has spent the past two decades as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Now, with the eyes of the world likely to be on him for his big day, Beckham is using his global platform to raise awareness and funding for children who are, as he puts it, “living in the toughest situations.”

His new initiative, a birthday fundraiser, will spotlight the stories of girls from across the globe through videos shared on his social media channels in the run-up to his birthday. Each video features young voices advocating for change in their communities—voices Beckham believes deserve to be heard.

In a video uploaded to Instagram, the football legend said: “We are witnessing a global funding crisis where the most vulnerable children are suffering the most and urgently need our help. Please support my birthday fundraiser.”

He continued, reflecting on the occasion: “Next month, I turn 50. It’s a major milestone that has made me think about the opportunities I’ve had and the experiences that have shaped me.”

As co-owner and president of Inter Miami CF, Beckham commands influence far beyond the football pitch—but it’s his work with UNICEF that he says has left the most lasting mark.

“As I look back, some of the moments that have had the most impact on me have come through my work with UNICEF,” he said. “As a father of four amazing children, I know how lucky my family is to be safe and have access to education and healthcare.”

The 20-year partnership with UNICEF has taken Beckham from refugee camps to rural communities, witnessing the impact of aid first-hand. He recalled his earliest trip with the charity—visiting a women’s centre in Thailand 25 years ago—as a moment that deeply shaped his mission.

“Today, 25 years since that visit, the world is a very difficult place for children—especially girls,” he said. “That’s why I’m launching a fundraising appeal for my birthday. I want the children who need us to believe that their voice will be heard.”

His call to action is simple but urgent: “So if you, like me, believe that every child should have the chance to achieve their full potential, please click the link in my bio to donate. Whatever you can give will make a difference to children’s lives.”

Beckham ended his statement with an emotional appeal: “Every child deserves the chance to dream. Together, we can help to make those dreams a reality.”

His wife, fashion designer and former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, and their four children—Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz, and Harper—have been longstanding supporters of David’s philanthropic work. It’s clear the footballer’s legacy is about more than trophies and titles; it’s about creating a world where every child, regardless of circumstance, can flourish.

As his 50th birthday approaches, Beckham’s message is clear: this is not a time for gifts, but for giving.